Great Britain Gold Angel Coins of Elizabeth I (Fakes are possible) 1561 to 1582

Look at the amazing coin in our photograph. It comes from Baldwin's Auctions Ltd. in London. This particular specimen is in beautiful shape and it sold recently at auction for 2900 GBP (about $4400 US dollars). It is a prized component of someone's numismatic (coin collecting) holdings today.

These coins were minted in angel, half angel and quarter angel denominations during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I of Great Britain. She reigned from 1558 to 1603. That is none other than Michael the Archangel (from the Bible) slaying a dragon on the front. The reverse pattern shows a ship holding a quartered shield with cross above. Alternately, the reverse pattern may be the bowsprit of a ship heading directly toward us, with a quartered shield.

The best way of telling the denomination of your coin is to weigh it. Jewelers have scales that will accurately weigh coins like this, so if you do not have one, visit your local jewelry store.

The main factors in determining the value of your coin are (1) authenticity and (2) condition. Counterfeits abound in today's coin marketplace, so be sure you have a genuine piece, not a fake. The best way to protect yourself from counterfeits is to deal exclusively with reputable dealers that advertise in numismatic periodicals. Baldwins is a prime example. For other reputable dealers, see PNGDealers.com.

Condition is the next most important factor. First, remember:

NEVER CLEAN A COIN. CLEANING RUINS VALUE.

If your coin looks like the coin in our picture, it is in excellent condition. If it scratched, stained, worn to a frazzle, or if it has been cleaned, it is worth much less than coins with no such problems.